Multi-generation working will become increasingly common as employees delay
retirement until their 70s or even 80s

Dramatic changes in work patterns will see young people sitting alongside their great-grandparents in the office, shop or factory in the next 20 years researchers have concluded after a “crystal ball” study into the future of work.

Later retirement and technology is widening the working-age pattern to the point where four generations – from great-grandparents down to great-grandchildren – could almost turn the work- place into a family affair, they conclude.

The analysis by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills predicts that multi-generation working will become increasingly common as employees delay retirement until their 70s or even 80s.

Technology will accelerate change throughout the working environment with many routine tasks taken over by the “smart algorithm”. Multi-media visual work will become the norm and the size of core workforces cut as companies rely more heavily on networks or freelances.

Women will have a stronger role and an increasing split between the top and bottom of the career ladder means highly paid, highly skilled professionals will push for a better work-life balance.

Four-generation work is making its appearance in sectors heavily dependent on part-timers, evening and week-end shifts. Retail is leading the way with some leading employers, including supermarket groups Asda and B&Q in the vanguard.

Toby Peyton-Jones, a director of Siemens and a commission member, said that if four-generation workplaces became commonplace “it will be the first time in human history that this has happened”.

He added: “Will we see inter-generational stress and culture clashes, or will this prove to be a possible tension that is part of a wider diversity trend that will drive innovation?”